Synthpunk Guide
Synthpunk, also known as electropunk or techno punk, is a sub-genre of punk rock that emerged in the early 1980s. It is characterized by the use of electronic instruments, such as synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers, and often incorporates elements of new wave and post-punk. Synthpunk lyrics typically focus on themes of rebellion, alienation, and social commentary.
Some of the most notable synthpunk bands include:
- A Split Second
- Die Tödliche Doris
- D.A.F.
- Delta 5
- The Electric Chairs
- The Future
- Gary Numan
- The Human League
- KRAFTWERK
- Missing Persons
- My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult
- Neon Judgement
- The Normal
- Portion Control
- Propaganda
- Simple Minds
- Spiderbait
- Visage
Synthpunk has had a significant influence on the development of electronic dance music (EDM) and industrial music. It has also been cited as an inspiration by a number of contemporary punk and rock bands, such as At the Drive-In, Bloc Party, the Faint, and the Killers.
The History Of Synthpunk
Synthpunk emerged in the late 1970s as a fusion of punk rock and electronic music. The genre was pioneered by bands such as Suicide, The Screamers, and Devo, who blended the raw energy of punk with the sleek sounds of synthesizers and drum machines.
The emergence of synthpunk was influenced by several factors, including the rise of new music technology, the changing social and political landscape, and the growing popularity of punk rock.
- Technological advancements: The development of new music technology in the 1970s, such as synthesizers and drum machines, made it possible for musicians to create electronic soundscapes that had previously been impossible. This new technology allowed punk bands to experiment with new sounds and textures, which helped to shape the genre's unique sound.
- Changing social and political landscape: The late 1970s was a time of great social and political change. The Vietnam War was winding down, the Watergate scandal had shaken public trust in the government, and the rise of neoliberal economics was leading to increased inequality. This climate of unrest and dissatisfaction found expression in the music of punk bands, who often used their songs to voice their concerns about the state of the world.
- Popularity of punk rock: Punk rock had become a major cultural force by the late 1970s. The genre's rebellious attitude and DIY ethos appealed to a wide range of young people, who saw punk as a way to express their individuality and challenge the status quo. Synthpunk bands drew on the energy and excitement of punk rock, but they also added their own unique elements, such as the use of synthesizers and drum machines.
By the early 1980s, synthpunk had become a well-established genre, with bands such as The Human League, Gary Numan, and Visage gaining widespread popularity. Synthpunk also influenced the development of other genres, such as new wave and electropop.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in synthpunk. New bands, such as HEALTH, The Soft Moon, and Cold Cave, have emerged to carry on the genre's legacy. Synthpunk has also been embraced by the fashion world, with many designers incorporating elements of the genre's aesthetic into their clothing collections.
Synthpunk Band
- Devo (1972–present)
- Suicide (1970–1979, 1981–1985, 1996–2016)
- The Screamers (1977–1980)
- The Units (1978–1984)
- XTC (1972–2006)
- Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) (1978–present)
- Gary Numan (1977–present)
- John Foxx (1977–present)
- Visage (1978–1985, 2004)
- Ultravox (1974–1988, 1992–1996)
- Japan (1974–1982)
- Simple Minds (1977–present)
- Depeche Mode (1980–present)
- New Order (1980–2007, 2011–present)
- The Cure (1976–present)
- Bauhaus (1978–1983)
- 45 Grave (1979–present)
- Christian Death (1979–present)
- Kommunity FK (1979–1985)
- Z'EV (1978–present)
